“Everyone can just be their own person in here” is what one client shared in a recent video testimonial posted to Barre South‘s Facebook page. Brett Dunevant, Owner and Lead Instructor of Barre South has certainly built up quite a following in the less than two years her one-room studio in Mount Pleasant, SC has been open. I wanted to know more about Brett and her studio so I recently asked her a few questions about Barre South.
Name: Brett Dunevant
Title: Owner / Lead Instructor
What do you love most about barre?
I love everything about the barre technique. I grew up dancing and as soon as I discovered barre it immediately replaced my passion for dance. Before I owned a studio, I was the girl that worked a full time job and also chose to teach barre and take class every single day. The barre studio is my happy place and now…having my own studio in my favorite place in the world…I’m living the dream.
What is your favourite barre move?
Ooh that’s a good one! My instructors and I were just talking about how we loved anything pretzel. Seated pretzel, standing pretzel, table top pretzel, you name it! It digs deep into the outer glute while also working on the waistline. And it also looks pretty!
What do you love most about being a business owner?
The best thing about opening Barre South has been the amazing relationships that have formed. My awesome instructors are now my best friends, and I couldn’t ask for better clients. We offer a killer workout in a beautiful space and people just love it! That’s what makes me happiest, knowing that people love what we’ve created. Because of this studio, I’m in a really good place and I know it’s just going to continue to get better!
What has been the biggest obstacle or challenge with growing your business?
Being a locally owned studio, we’ve been very fortunate that in the year and a half Barre South has been open, everything has gone smoothly and our growth has been amazing. It may be that my biggest challenge is yet to come – we’re about to open a second location in Downtown Charleston. Managing two studios means double the responsibilities and double the work, but honestly, I’m nothing but excited to take on the challenge. It’s what I love to do, so I’m ready!
How does the vibe at your studio differ from other studio cultures?
This is one of the top things we pride ourselves on – the “vibe” in our studio. It’s honestly what all of our clients talk about – “the energy in here is so different than the other studios I’ve been to.” We know everyone’s name, whether it’s their first class or 400th. We’re warm, welcoming, and fun – we’re a family! We’ve created an environment where no one feels judged, a place where people want to be. Our classes are intense, but our clients get through it with the help and motivation from our instructors and each other! Our music is pretty awesome too, so that helps 🙂
What do you usually play in your studio?
Pop/Top 40, Hip Hop, R&B, Rap, EDM/House and Rock.
What do you hope clients get out of a class?
I want them to leave feeling like they got a kickass workout, while also feeling mentally refreshed, physically accomplished, and had fun all at the same time!
You currently have one studio with another in the works. Do you have any expansion plans beyond your two locations?
Currently we’re focusing on getting the second studio up and running. But yes, we’re always open to expanding more!
Is there anything else you think we should know about your business?
If you’re ever in Charleston, come see us! We offer a vacationer’s package and we’re super close to the beach! We also do private parties all the time (especially bachelorette parties!). If you live in Charleston, come take a class – first class is free and the first month is just $50! Would love to have you!
